A Return and a Beginning by Eric

A Return and a Beginning by Eric - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

After thirty years away from the classroom, I made the life-changing decision to return to college and pursue a degree in social work. This choice was not made lightly—it was born from deep reflection, personal growth, and a desire to live with purpose. As I begin this next semester at Tulsa Community College (TCC), my aspirations are clear: maintain my 4.0 GPA and continue the journey of self-discovery that has already transformed my life.
Throughout my adult years, I focused on fulfilling my own wants and needs. I worked as a bartender, navigated the corporate world in the insurance and newspaper industries, and experienced the highs and lows that come with each role. While these jobs provided financial stability and professional experience, none of them truly satisfied my inner calling. It wasn’t until I chose social work that I felt a profound sense of alignment between my values and my vocation. Helping others isn’t just a career path, it’s a moral obligation and a personal mission.
I believe that as human beings, we are called to support one another. Whether through small acts of kindness or life-changing interventions, our ability to uplift others defines the strength of our communities. This belief fuels my motivation to succeed academically and professionally. I want to be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and empathy necessary to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who are struggling, marginalized, or simply in need of a compassionate ear.
Before enrolling at TCC, my academic record, particularly my grades from my time at the University of Oklahoma, was far from stellar. My GPA then reflected a version of myself that lacked direction, discipline, and a clear sense of purpose. I was younger, distracted, and not yet ready to commit fully to the demands of higher education. But that chapter belongs to the past. The person I am today is driven, focused, and deeply motivated by a calling greater than myself. My current academic success is not just a redemption story—it’s a testament to the transformation I’ve undergone. The 4.0 I now hold at TCC represents the new me: someone who is intentional, passionate, and ready to make a lasting impact through social work.
Returning to college after a three-decade hiatus has not been without its challenges. The academic environment has changed, technology has evolved, and balancing coursework with personal responsibilities requires discipline and resilience. Yet, I have embraced these challenges with enthusiasm. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA is more than a number—it’s a reflection of my commitment, my work ethic, and my passion for learning. Each class I take deepens my understanding of human behavior, social systems, and the transformative power of empathy.
My past has not been free of adversity. Like many, I have faced personal struggles that tested my strength and resolve. But I have never allowed hardship to steal my joy or diminish my compassion. In fact, these experiences have shaped me into someone who can relate to others with authenticity and grace. They have taught me that healing is possible, and that sometimes, all a person needs is someone who truly listens and cares.
As I look ahead to this semester, I am filled with hope and determination. I am not just earning a degree, I am building a life rooted in service, empathy, and purpose. Social work is more than a profession to me; it embodies everything I value. I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I am excited for the journey ahead. With each step, I move closer to becoming the person I was always meant to be: someone who helps others find their strength, their voice, and their joy.